Finishing with 22 disposals and a game-high 14 marks, the 21-year-old impressed with his reading of the flight and strong hands, along with Luke Dunstan (32 disposals, eight tackles), Darren Minchington (26 disposals, five tackles) and Mav Weller (23 disposals, six tackles).

The Zebras started strongly, with a four-goal first quarter made even sweeter as the Demons were kept to just 0.3 at the first break.

Casey managed just four goals from 12 shots on goal for the first half, stunning a home crowd that witnessed Jade Rawlings’ side win their past 11 games heading into Saturday’s clash.

Irishman Ray Connellan impressed as a small forward to finish with three majors and worry the Casey defenders with his blistering pace.

Despite not hitting the scoreboard in the final term as the Demons seized control, Sandringham coach Aaron Hamill was pleased with his side’s pressure and intent at the contest.

“It was a strong start, and we really liked getting our balance right at the contest,” Hamill told saints.com.au.

“Our backs held up really well – Hugh Goddard and Logan Austin (17 disposals, five marks) were both really strong, along with Brandon White back there.

“Goddard played his best game today and is pushing his case for senior selection, and we really liked Nick Coffield’s work (18 disposals, seven tackles) both inside and out.

“Luke Dunstan and Darren Minchington were both outstanding for us inside the contest, and cracked in with the Sandringham boys in Brede Seccull and Kade Answerth without an experienced ruckman.

“Mav Weller and Sam Gilbert (18 disposals, five tackles, five marks) were strong for us in the contest, which was really important with the number of youngsters we’ve got as well.”

Hamill also mentioned the promising development of St Kilda’s young talent throughout the season, with the likes of Ed Phillips, Nick Coffield, Hunter Clark, Logan Austin and Oscar Clavarino each building their individual game.

Sandringham heads to Preston City Oval in Round 20 of the VFL to clash with the Northern Blues at 2pm on Saturday 18 August.